I'm thinking I will get these new #8 AF53s. I may just sun bleach them for a while though. I originally thought I'd be leaning toward antique edges, but actually I like the patina on the classic edges over time better. I've been kicking the crap out of my BB #8 LHSs for sure. But they are dark #8 and only have mild fading really.

My hunch (based solely on observations) is that Alden wants them to stay darker for business wearers, who don't like the fading and revealed splotches like some of us do.